How to Choose a Snow Shovel, Ice Scraper and Grit

Updated 9 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Choosing the right snow shovel, ice scraper and grit helps you clear paths safely and reduce slipping around your home. First consider your usual snow, the surfaces you need to treat, and who will do the work; then match tool size and de-icer type to those conditions.

What You’ll Need

A note of the areas to clear, including paths, steps, a driveway and any delicate surfaces such as decking or paving.
Details of typical local conditions: light or wet snow, frequent ice, and the lowest temperatures you commonly face.
Optional: a tape measure to check storage space and path width, and product labels for any grit or de-icer already at home.

Step-by-Step

Map the jobs before shopping. Estimate the width and length of the areas you clear and identify tight corners, steps, slopes and places to pile snow. A wide, straight driveway can suit a larger shovel; a narrow path or crowded entrance is easier to work with using a compact blade. Plan a snow-pile location that does not block drains, doors, visibility or access.
Choose a shovel blade for your snow and surfaces. A broad plastic blade is light and practical for routine snow on many paved paths. A metal-edged or metal blade can help scrape compacted snow, but may scratch or chip delicate paving, timber or coatings. For wet, heavy snow, avoid choosing an oversized blade simply to clear more per pass: smaller loads are easier to control. A narrow scoop can be useful for steps and awkward spots. Check the manufacturer’s surface guidance.
Check the handle, grip and overall fit. If possible, hold the shovel as you would while clearing. The handle should let you work without excessive bending or reaching, and the grip should feel secure with gloves on. A curved or ergonomic shaft may reduce awkward posture for some people, but fit matters more than a particular shape. Look for a sturdy connection between blade and shaft, a comfortable grip, and a weight you can lift and steer repeatedly. A telescoping or detachable handle is useful where storage space is limited.
Select an ice scraper suited to the area. For steps and small patches, choose a hand scraper with a solid, comfortable handle and a blade appropriate for the surface. A metal edge can break stubborn ice but risks damaging some finishes; a plastic edge is gentler but may be less effective on thick ice. For larger paved areas, a long-handled scraper can reduce kneeling and reaching. Do not use a sharp scraper on surfaces whose care instructions prohibit it, or on vehicle glass unless the tool is specifically intended for automotive use.
Decide what you mean by “grit.” In many places, grit means sand or fine aggregate used to add traction; it does not melt ice. De-icing products, such as salt-based materials, work differently and may be called grit in local shops. Read the label to identify the active material, effective temperature range, compatible surfaces and application directions. If you need immediate traction, use a traction material; if you need to loosen ice, consider a suitable de-icer. Neither replaces clearing snow.
Match the material to your surfaces and surroundings. Sand or other traction aggregate can leave residue and may need sweeping up. Salt and other de-icers can damage or discolor some concrete, stone, metal and plants, and can affect pets’ paws. Check surface and environmental cautions on the label, use only where appropriate, and keep material away from drains, lawns and planting beds as directed. If unsure, test a small, inconspicuous area or ask the paving manufacturer.
Compare storage, maintenance and replacement needs. Measure the shed or entry space, including room to hang a shovel. Inspect for cracks, bent parts, loose fasteners and worn scraper edges. Choose a design with replacement parts if available, and store tools dry to limit corrosion and deterioration. Keep grit in a closed, clearly labelled container so it stays dry and is not confused with other materials.
Plan a safe clearing routine. Clear early and in manageable layers rather than waiting for snow to compact. Push snow where possible; lift only small loads, keep them close to your body, and avoid twisting while carrying. Use grit or de-icer only according to its label, and keep people away while applying it. Recheck the route after thawing and refreezing, since meltwater can create new ice.

Common Mistakes

Buying the biggest shovel: A wide blade can take on too much wet snow at once, increasing effort and making control harder. Prioritize a manageable load and a blade that fits the path.
Assuming grit melts ice: Sand and aggregate improve grip but do not thaw ice. A de-icer may loosen ice but is not a substitute for traction or physical clearing.
Using salt everywhere: Products vary, and some surfaces, nearby plants, metals and animals may be harmed. Follow the label and surface-care advice rather than applying extra.
Scraping delicate surfaces with a hard edge: Metal can gouge or chip some paving and coatings. Use a gentler tool where appropriate and check the surface instructions.
Applying material by guesswork: More is not automatically better. Excess can leave residue, harm surroundings or wash into drains; follow the stated coverage and directions.

Tips

Keep a small scraper near the entrance and the main shovel where it is easy to reach before a storm.
Clear a narrow route first, then widen it; this gives you safe access without needing to move every last bit at once.
Push snow to a planned spot instead of piling it where it can drain across a walkway and refreeze.
Wear grippy footwear and gloves, and take breaks. If conditions are beyond your ability, arrange help rather than attempting a risky lift.
Keep a dedicated scoop for spreading grit, and close the container after use to prevent moisture from clumping the contents.

Troubleshooting

The shovel sticks or snow builds up on it: The snow may be wet or compacted. Take thinner passes, push rather than lift, and clear the blade periodically. Do not coat it with a substance unless the tool maker says it is suitable.
The scraper is not shifting ice: Thick ice may need to be loosened gradually. Check whether a surface-compatible de-icer is allowed, follow its label, wait the stated time, then scrape carefully. Avoid striking hard enough to chip the paving.
The treated area is still slippery: De-icer may not work at the current temperature, or water may be refreezing. Check the product’s temperature range, remove loosened slush, and add an appropriate traction material if permitted. Keep the route closed or marked until it is safe.
Grit has clumped or spread too far: Moisture can cause clumping; store it in a sealed, dry container and break up only material the label says remains usable. Sweep excess from surfaces when conditions allow, disposing of it according to local guidance.
A surface becomes stained or damaged: Stop applying the product and consult the paving or product maker for cleanup advice. Do not mix cleaners or apply another chemical as a remedy unless the instructions specifically allow it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a plastic or metal snow shovel better?
Plastic is usually lighter and may be gentler on some surfaces. Metal can be useful for scraping, but may damage delicate paving. Choose for the snow and surface, and check manufacturer guidance.

Does sand melt snow and ice?
No. Sand adds traction but does not melt ice. A de-icer is needed to help thaw or loosen ice, if it is suitable for the surface and conditions.

Can I use road salt on every path?
No. Salt can damage certain paving, metals and plants and may affect pets. Read the label and check the surface maker’s advice before use.

How much grit should I spread?
Follow the product’s stated application rate and coverage. Different materials and formulations vary, so there is no safe universal amount; excess can create residue or environmental problems.

What tool should I use on steps?
A compact shovel or hand scraper is easier to control on steps than a wide blade. Select a non-damaging edge for the material and use traction product only if its label permits it.

Should I clear snow before spreading grit?
Usually, remove loose snow first so the material can reach the walking surface. Follow the product directions, and clear loosened slush promptly to limit refreezing.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.